Ukrainian intelligence officials have presented evidence suggesting Russian troops have engaged in cannibalism due to brutal conditions on the front lines. This evidence includes images and intercepted audio exchanges between Russian officers.

Allegations of Cannibalism Emerge

According to sources cited by The Sunday Times, at least five separate incidents have been documented, with accusations coming from fellow soldiers and commanders. The information was gathered by cybersecurity specialists monitoring the Telegram messaging app for battlefield intelligence.

The Case of 'Khromoy'

One case involves a soldier known as ‘Khromoy’ (‘limpy’ in Russian), who allegedly killed two comrades in November 2025 near Myrnohrad in the Donetsk region and began consuming one of their bodies. Details were relayed to Lieutenant Razikov Vladislav Abdulkhalykovych, deputy commander of the brigade’s reconnaissance battalion, along with graphic images.

Intercepted messages describe the soldier attempting to process the remains using a meat grinder and engaging in a firefight when confronted. The officer reporting the incident expressed bewilderment at the soldier’s access to a meat grinder, highlighting the desperation of the situation.

Widespread Starvation and Explicit Directives

Further conversations reveal widespread starvation within the Russian ranks, with officers fearing more soldiers might resort to extreme measures. Other Telegram exchanges reference additional alleged instances of cannibalism.

One soldier complained about sharing a dugout with someone who had previously consumed human remains, while a commander reprimanded a subordinate for consuming Ukrainian soldiers, questioning why they weren’t eating ‘Khokhols’ (a derogatory term for Ukrainians). A brigade chief of staff issued a directive explicitly forbidding cannibalism alongside alcohol and drug use.

Russian Embassy Denies Claims

The Russian Embassy in London has dismissed the allegations as fabrications produced by Ukrainian military intelligence for propaganda purposes.

Evidence Authenticity

AI detection tools reportedly confirmed the authenticity of the images, and an independent conflict surgeon stated that injuries depicted were consistent with being inflicted by a sharp knife, not battlefield explosions. The intercepted audio messages corroborate the visual evidence.

The reports underscore a potential breakdown of discipline and morality within the Russian military, driven by starvation and the pressures of the ongoing conflict. The situation raises questions about logistical support and the psychological toll the war is taking on Russian soldiers.